John 14: 30-31
"....but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me. Come now, let us leave."
Jesus taught us in many occasions that he who follows God's command, is one who loves God. Jesus also followed His own teachings: "I do exactly what my Father has commanded." In submitting to God, He left the glory of heaven and came to this world and took the path to the cross again submitting to the Father. We often think that His willingness to go on the cross is a sign of profound love, but Jesus did not embrace the cross cheerfully nor did He fully express His love on the cross. In fact , He prayed three times in the Garden of Gethsemane saying, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. " Apparently, to Him it was not a warm feeling when facing the cross, He tried to avoid it instead.
What eventually made Jesus went on to the cross willingly? It was His submission to God. He prayed three times, "nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will." Submitting Himself to God willingly, He walked to the cross - that was an expression of love. Once we come to understand His action, we should realize that when we are taught to love our enemies, He did not make it difficult for us. In fact when Jesus asked us to love our enemies, He asked for an action of submission to God instead of a feeling of love. In addition, Jesus said in Matthews 5:44 that not only should we love our enemies, He then added that we should pray for those who persecute us. In other words "loving your enemies" is praying for those who persecute us. Perhaps we may not have a feeling of love for them, but we can be submissive to God and pray for them.
Praying for those who persecute us is actually an act of love. It was like Jesus praying for those who nailed Him on the cross saying, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." Are you not able to forgive someone? This bitter hatred will forever shackle you so that you can never be set free. As time goes, you will feel remorseful that you are unable to love your enemies. But whenever you are willingly to submit to God, pray for your persecutors, you will be set free with energy radiating from your lives. Love begins with your submission to God; are you willing to do that today? Jesus encouraged His disciples here saying, "Come now, let us leave!" Are you willing to follow His calling? You can walk out from your hatred, bitterness, vengefulness and self-pity! Let is response to God's calling; arise and walk with Him!
Pray with Pastor Tong
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